Learn about Adderall and substance abuse

Adderall is a stimulant medication that is most commonly used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Although Adderall is safe when used according to the prescribing physician’s recommendations to treat ADHD, many people abuse it for its energy-increasing, euphoric effects. As a stimulant, Adderall can induce pleasurable feelings and elevated attentiveness, and as a result, Adderall may be an attractive target for abuse among those who are seeking a pleasurable high or who desire intense focus during high-pressure academic, occupational, or athletic efforts. Unfortunately, although it is relatively safe when used as directed, Adderall is still a stimulant and it can cause severe disruption in the lives of those who abuse it. Individuals that abuse adderall will need to seek treatment at a trusted rehab center to tackle their addiction.

Statistics

Adderall addiction statistics

According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), between 5% and 35% of college-aged individuals endorsed abusing stimulants in the past year. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), slightly more than 10% of adults ages 26 to 34 and less than 2% of adults ages 35 and older have ever abused Adderall.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes and risk factors for Adderall addiction

Because it is a stimulant, Adderall shares some of the same risk factors as other stimulants. These can include:

Environmental: Certain environmental factors can affect a person’s chance of developing an Adderall use disorder. These can include factors such as being exposed to Adderall in one’s environment, associating with others who abuse Adderall, and living in an unstable home environment.

Risk Factors:

Family history of substance abuse

Personal history of mental illness

Personal history of other substance abuse

Being under strong pressure to perform in school, work, athletics, or other domains

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of Adderall addiction

The following signs and symptoms are commonly found among those who struggle with Adderall abuse:

Behavioral symptoms:

Taking more Adderall, or taking Adderall over a longer period of time, than originally intended

Unsuccessful efforts to reduce Adderall use

Spending excessive time acquiring, using, or recovering from use of Adderall

Failing to fulfill major role obligations due to Adderall use

Neglecting important activities in favor of using

Continuing to use Adderall even in situations where doing so can be hazardous

Using Adderall despite being aware of significant problems caused by use of the drug

Physical symptoms:

Excessively rapid or slow heart rate

Dilated pupils

Extremely high or extremely low blood pressure

Perspiration

Chills

Nausea

Vomiting

Weight loss

Feeling jittery or restless

Slowed movements

Weakness

Slowed breathing

Needing increasing amounts of Adderall over time to achieve the desired effect

Experiencing extreme discomfort upon discontinuing use

Cognitive symptoms:

Experiencing cravings for Adderall

Confusion

Rapid thought processes

Extreme focus

Impaired judgment

Grandiosity

Psychosocial symptoms:

Experiencing social or relational problems as a result of Adderall use

Agitation or aggression

Anxiety

Euphoria

Effects

Effects of Adderall addiction

If left untreated, without rehab at a treatment center, Adderall abuse can cause significant problems in a person’s life. Some of these negative effects include:

Effects of Adderall withdrawal and overdose

Effects of Adderall withdrawal: If a person who has been abusing Adderall for an extended period of time attempts to abstain from use, he or she may experience a number of uncomfortable symptoms such as:

Depressed mood

Fatigue

Vivid or unpleasant dreams

Insomnia

Oversleeping

Increased appetite

Psychomotor agitation or slowing

Effects of Adderall overdose: When a person ingests more Adderall than his or her body can safely metabolize, he or she will experience a dangerous condition known as an overdose. Overdoses can be potentially fatal and require that the person receives medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms of an overdose can include:

As described above, the consequences for untreated Adderall abuse can be severe and life-threatening. Furthermore, because Adderall is a relatively common drug, it can be difficult for a person to overcome an addiction without professional help.

Sober Living By the Sea (SLBTS) is a network of treatment & rehab centers that include The Landing, The Rose, and Sunrise Recovery Ranch. Through our specialized care, men and women have the opportunity to move towards a life free from substance abuse. Furthermore, because SLBTS offers residential care, individuals who are seeking a safe place to recover from Adderall abuse can have the opportunity to invest in their own health in a space that is secure and drug-free 24 hours per day. Residential treatment for Adderall abuse can be particularly helpful as it allows a person to heal in a temptation-free environment where sobriety and health can be his or her first priority and where a person is surrounded by a compassionate and experienced team of professionals who are eager to help each person take his or her first steps towards lifelong freedom from Adderall abuse.

“I have had an Adderall addiction for a while and then I attended groups and one on one therapy with my counselor at Sober Living by the Sea and this time something magical happened for me there. They saved my life -- check this place out if you are looking for treatment!”

– Former Patient

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Sober Living by the Sea offers luxury residential treatment for drug and alcohol abuse in addition to co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety. Located in Newport Beach, California, our center has provided quality addiction rehab for 30+ years.